Apr 28, 2022
A precious jewel at the end of one of Australia’s most scenic coastal drives, the resort town of Port Douglas will spoil you with sunny days and balmy nights full of romance, relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re looking for a place to celebrate your honeymoon, anniversary, or just somewhere to run away from ‘real life’ together, you’ve come to the right place.
Located just over an hour’s drive north of Cairns, this quaint and quiet township is a little slice of paradise with all the tropical trimmings: coconut palm-lined beaches, turquoise waters, warm tropical weather and first-class resorts, all perched right on the doorstep of two of nature’s most recognised masterpieces - the World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef.
Rainforest seduction
Although the idea of spending your entire trip by the resort pool with a cocktail is definitely worthy – it’s not every day that you find yourself so close to the oldest living rainforest on the planet. Taking time to explore the Daintree Rainforest is a must, with some fabulous accommodation options and truly wonderful and intimate experiences on offer – from candlelit dinners in the treetops, to long stretches of secluded white-sand beaches, secret swimming holes, waterfalls and hiking trails. Wildlife enthusiasts will love the eco tours as well, including an exciting crocodile-spotting cruise on the Daintree River! Allow yourself to be seduced by 180 million years of natural beauty.
Aquatic adventures
Ride a luxury catamaran out to the outer Great Barrier Reef for a day like no other – snorkel or dive with exotic marine life and amazing coral formations, and enjoy a tropical buffet lunch at sea. Some of the day trips include access to underwater observatories, fish feeding and semi-submersible boat trips to help you get even more up close and personal with the locals.
Adults only
For some, a romantic getaway is simply the peace and tranquillity that comes with leaving the kids at home! If this is the case, you’ll be pleased to know that Port Douglas has an attractive offering of adults-only accommodation – because if you’re leaving your own children behind, why would you want to stay with someone else’s? Your child-free reality can be further enhanced with some boutique adults-only activities in the area, including romantic luxury sunset cruises and couples’ day spa treatments.
A bird’s-eye view
Get high (on life) with your special someone, by taking to the air. Hot-air ballooning is always a romantic option, or spoil them with unrivalled reef-meets-rainforest views on an exhilarating helicopter ride along the coastline. Take it to the next level of romance and fly out to a deserted sand bank for a private picnic in the middle of the reef.
Eat ‘n chill
Romantic dinners mean different things to different people – from casual tapas and a cocktail to a degustation menu at a fine dining establishment. However, in a place that prides themselves on their star ratings and has won numerous prestigious dining awards, no matter what style of food or category of restaurant you choose in Port Douglas, you will be impressed.
Languid lunches are also highly recommended here. Be intoxicated not only by the perfectly paired wines, but by the gentle tropical breezes and sunlight that kisses your face through swaying palm fronds. Foodies will also love the option of a tropical food and wine tasting tour that departs from town.
The special kind of magic that Port Douglas offers, wedged between two of the world’s greatest natural wonders, makes it a destination you will want to visit again and again.